Pontius Pilate

Pontius Pilate (died 39 AD) was the Roman prefect of Iudaea from 26 to 37 AD, succeeding Valerius Gratus and preceding Marcellus. He was known for adjudicating on the trial and crucifixion of Jesus in 34 AD.

Biography
Pontius Pilate was an equestrian of the Pontii family, and he was appointed to succeed Valerius Gratus as Prefect of Iudaea in 26 AD. He offended the religious sensibilities of his subjects, telling the Jewish high priest Caiaphas that he cared nothing either for his superstitions or for his God, but that he would keep order in Iudaea. In 34 AD, he adjudicated on the trial and crucifixion of Jesus, although he lobbied for Jesus to be spared, only acquiescing after the crowd refused to relent. He sought to avoid personal responsibility for Jesus' death, so he washed his hands, symbolically washing away the guilt. In 36 AD, he went on to suppress a Samaritan movement, and consul Lucius Vitellius the Elder decided to recall him to Rome. He died in 39 AD.